Insurers Unable to Deploy Surveyors Amid Gen Z Protest Damages; NIA Exploring Simplified Claim Process

Kathmandu — Insurance companies are struggling to survey damages caused during the Genji protests, with field assessments currently limited to urgent cases. The Nepal Insurance Authority (NIA) has confirmed that it is holding discussions with insurers to find ways to simplify and expedite the claims process.

Since the majority of claims fall under the “riot and terrorism” category, settlements will require coordination among insurers, reinsurers, and the NIA, which is expected to take additional time.

Nepal Insurers’ Association President Birendra Baidawar said that only immediate damage assessments have been carried out so far. “Surveyors have not been deployed to all affected sites as the situation in the country has not yet calmed down,” he noted.

Surveyors Association President Mohanpurush Dhakal added that strict security measures and ongoing instability have made it difficult to send surveyors nationwide. “We are working only in urgently needed and accessible locations,” he said.

The survey reports are critical for insurers to process claims, as they verify ownership, assess damages, and establish the insurer’s liability. The process also involves extensive fieldwork, document collection, compliance with detailed regulatory guidelines, and the written consent of the insured—tasks that are proving difficult under current conditions.

Baidawar confirmed that claims have already been lodged for damages to Ncell’s office building, automobile showrooms, and several vehicles in Kathmandu, though the actual financial impact cannot yet be estimated.

Insurance professionals warn that without timely surveys, claim settlements will face delays, adding further challenges to an already complex process.